Beirut: A prestigious ceremony was held today at the headquarters of the Association of Lebanese Industrialists to honor Lebanese companies that garnered accolades at the WorldStar Awards 2026. Under the auspices of the Minister of Industry, Joe Issa El Khoury, the event was organized by the Association of Lebanese Industrialists, led by Salim Zeeni, and managed by LibanPack, headed by Nabil Gemayel.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the WorldStar Awards are organized by the World Packaging Organisation and are among the most esteemed international recognitions in the packaging sector. This year, nearly 500 entries from over 40 countries competed for these honors. Lebanon emerged victorious with eight global awards from 18 Lebanese entries qualified via the Arab StarPack competition, organized by LibanPack. This achievement places Lebanon among the top ten countries globally in terms of awards received.
This success highlights the Lebanese industry's ability to innovate and compete on international markets despite the economic challenges and difficulties the country faces. Alongside Minister Issa El Khoury, the ceremony gathered Salim Zeeni, Nabil Gemayel, the Vice President of the World Packaging Organisation, Soha Atallah, as well as representatives from the industrial sector, media, and winning companies.
Minister Issa El Khoury emphasized the strategic importance of the packaging sector, stating that it is often perceived as the final stage in the production process, yet it plays a crucial role in protecting products, extending their shelf life, facilitating transport and export, enhancing brand image, and allowing Lebanese products to confidently penetrate international markets. He also underscored the rising importance of the packaging sector in addressing global environmental challenges and the ministry's efforts to encourage recycling and promote a circular economy.
Salim Zeeni remarked that the awards reaffirm the national industry's commitment to the highest international quality standards. He highlighted the essential role of packaging in product marketing, noting its significant qualitative evolution in recent years. Zeeni expressed that these distinctions are a testament to the industry's efforts, sending a message of confidence in the Lebanese industry's capabilities.
Nabil Gemayel attributed the success of Lebanese companies to years of dedication to developing the packaging sector and fostering a culture of innovation. He lauded LibanPack's role in organizing the WorldStar Awards on behalf of the World Packaging Organisation, reflecting the reputation and trust in Lebanese expertise internationally.
Soha Atallah noted that the recognition of Lebanese companies, which won eight global awards in a competition involving more than 40 countries, confirms Lebanese innovation's ability to reach the highest international levels. She emphasized the packaging sector as a crucial driver of innovation, sustainable development, and the enhancement of trade and exports.
The ceremony concluded with the official presentation of the WorldStar trophies to the winning companies, aiming to highlight Lebanese achievements and encourage further investment in innovation and sustainable development, strengthening Lebanon's position as a regional hub of industrial and packaging excellence.
The award-winning companies included Gemayel Freres, which received three awards, Unipak with two awards, alongside Pro Plus Creative, Rawi Rum, and Tagbrands, each securing an award.